Active Suspension Camber Control for Tire Contact Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing active suspension control methods for high-performance sports cars fail to optimally manage camber and toe angles, particularly under maximum dynamic performance conditions, leading to suboptimal tire-ground contact.

Innovation Solution

A control method utilizing high-power electromagnetic linear actuators and an electronic control unit connected to a triaxial gyroscope and satellite positioning system to dynamically adjust toe and camber angles in real-time, based on measurements of linear and angular accelerations, and geo-referenced position, to optimize tire contact patch.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional passive suspension is used, then the suspension structure is simple and cost-effective, but the camber and toe angles cannot be optimized for maximum dynamic performance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetire-ground contact optimizationVSAvoidsuspension system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies active suspension arms with linear actuators that dynamically adjust the camber and toe angles in real-time based on driving conditions, transforming the static passive suspension into a dynamic system that optimizes tire-ground contact for maximum performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If active suspension with linear actuators is used, then the camber and toe angles can be controlled to improve tire-ground contact, but the system complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetire-ground contact patch optimizationVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a single electronic control unit that manages multiple linear actuators across different suspension arms, creating a multi-functional control system that handles camber and toe angle adjustments for both front and rear suspensions, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the active components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If existing active suspension control methods are used, then basic camber and toe angle adjustment is achieved, but optimal performance under maximum dynamic conditions is not attained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic performanceVSAvoidcontrol effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback control system where the electronic control unit continuously monitors suspension position and actuator status, comparing actual camber and toe angles with target values calculated for optimal performance, and adjusts actuator commands accordingly to maintain maximum dynamic performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution allows for continuous adjustment of toe and camber angles to achieve optimal tire-ground contact, enhancing dynamic performance, stability, and traction by optimizing force distribution during various driving maneuvers.

Implementation Method 1

connected to a triaxial gyroscope which is integral with the vehicle chassis and measures linear accelerations with respect to the ground and angular accelerations with respect to the ground in real time

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGyroscope: Gyroscope

Implementation Method 2

the suspension arms are replaced by corresponding linear actuators which are driven to vary their length in controlled manner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic actuation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP2612772B1Control method for determining the optimal camber and toe angles of an active suspension of a vehicle
Publication Date: 2017.03.08 FERRARI SPA
  • EP2612772B1 patent drawing
  • EP2612772B1 patent drawing
  • EP2612772B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A control method for an active suspension (11, 12) of a vehicle (1), wherein the determination of an optimal camber angle of the active suspension (11, 12) includes the steps of: estimating the slip angle (±) of the wheel (2, 3) of the active suspension (11, 12); estimating the vertical force (Fz) which weighs on the wheel (2, 3) of the active suspension (11, 12); estimating the transverse force (Fy) which is transferred to the ground by the wheel (2, 3) of the active suspension (11, 12) as a function of the slip angle (±) of the wheel (2, 3) of the active suspension (11, 12) and as a function of the vertical force (Fz) which weighs on the wheel (2, 3) of the active suspension (11, 12); and determines the optimal camber angle as a function of the transverse force (Fy) which is transferred to the ground by the wheel (2, 3) of the active suspension (11, 12).